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May 02, 2024

Best progesterone cream for sleep problems

progesterone cream for sleep

If you're struggling with sleep issues and seeking a natural solution, bio-identical progesterone cream might be worth considering. Natural progesterone has been studied extensively and shown to have significant sleep-promoting effects. This article explores the best bio-identical progesterone creams available and how they can help alleviate sleep problems.

What is Bio-Identical Progesterone?

Bio-identical progesterone refers to a type of hormone that is chemically identical to the progesterone produced by the human body. Unlike synthetic progestins, which can have varying structures and effects, bio-identical progesterone offers a natural approach that is in harmony with your body’s own chemistry.

How Does Progesterone Help with Sleep?

Research highlights that progesterone influences sleep through its modulation of GABAA receptors, much like benzodiazepines, which are commonly prescribed for sleep issues. Studies have shown that progesterone can decrease the time it takes to fall asleep and reduce the number of awakenings during the night, thus enhancing sleep quality. Progesterone also raises serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is the precursor to melatonin, the 'sleep' hormone.

The Best Bio-Identical Progesterone Creams for Sleep:

When choosing a bio-identical progesterone cream, consider products that are:

1. USP Grade: Ensure the progesterone is USP (United States Pharmacopeia) grade, indicating it meets strict quality standards.

2. Paraben-Free: Look for creams that do not contain parabens, as these chemicals can disrupt hormone balance.

Here are some top recommended bio-identical progesterone creams:

•Natpro: Natural Organic Progesterone Cream. Known for its quality organic ingredients, is soy-free and made with USP grade progesterone.

•Emerita Pro-Gest Cream: Made with USP grade progesterone and has been clinically-tested and trusted for over 35 years.

•Smoky Mountain Naturals Progesterone Cream: This cream is soy-free and non-GMO.

Guidelines for Using Progesterone Cream:

-Talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new hormonal treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

-Apply as directed: Progesterone cream can be used anywhere on the body. The skin comprises 95% kerotinocytes, these have ample progesterone receptor sites.

-Consistent use: It may take a few weeks to notice improvements in sleep patterns, so consistent application as per the product’s guideline is crucial.

Conclusion

Bio-identical progesterone cream can be a viable and natural option for individuals facing sleep difficulties due to hormonal imbalances or menopausal symptoms. By choosing a high-quality, bio-identical progesterone cream and following application guidelines carefully, many can experience improved sleep quality and overall well-being. Always consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that it is a safe option for your specific health needs.

***References:

Progesterone-induced changes in sleep in male subjects

The American Journal of Physiology: Progesterone induces changes in sleep comparable to those of agonistic GABAA receptor modulators

Psychopharmacology: The GABAA receptor antagonist picrotoxin attenuates most sleep changes induced by progesterone

Effects of progesterone

May 01, 2024

7 miss carriages

i have had 7 miss carriages . one pregnancy was twins . my progesterone stop increasing after 7 weeks only one with twins went till 9 weeks but even with

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May 01, 2024

Trying to contact you and no replies regarding RETURNS.

Hi, I used the 'contact us' button and submitted a question several days ago and I've yet to hear back from anyone so I'll ask here - I need to submit

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Apr 29, 2024

Can progesterone cream increase breast cancer risk?

scientist weighs the options

If you've heard that progesterone cream can increase the risk of breast cancer, it's essential to clarify that the confusion arises from a misunderstanding. It's crucial to distinguish between natural progesterone and synthetic progestins, (progestogen, progestogens, progestins, Medroxyprogesterone, gestagen, gestogen), used in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and contraceptives. They are not the same, and this difference is at the root of the misconception that natural progesterone poses a cancer risk.

Oestrogen is responsible for the growth of hormonally sensitive cells. Yet, when in excess, it can increase the risk of gigantomastia, gynaecomastia, and even breast cancer. It can also disrupt ovulation and increase the risk of heavy bleeding and endometrial cancer. However, progesterone can reverse these effects and potentially provide benefits against conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and cancer.

Evidence suggests that only 5% of cancers are genetic, while a staggering 95% are influenced by environmental factors such as pollutants, processed food, and misuse of prescription drugs like oestrogen. The long-term use of contraceptives and HRT without progesterone has been linked to an increased risk of endometrial and breast cancer.

In 2002, the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) suddenly halted due to a rise in breast cancer, heart disease, and strokes among women on HRT. Furthermore, synthetic and bio-identical oestrogen, used in HRT since the 1950s, has been linked with higher rates of endometrial and breast cancer. Findings such as these have led to a decline in the use of HRT.

A comprehensive review of medical literature has found that the use of natural progesterone in postmenopausal women does not increase the risk of breast cancer. Synthetic progestins and natural progesterone have significantly different effects on the human body at the cellular level.

Studies involving 86,881 postmenopausal women showed that natural progesterone significantly reduces the risk of breast cancer compared to synthetic progestins. Lower than normal levels of serum progesterone have also been linked to a higher risk of breast cancer in premenopausal women. Natural progesterone can protect against hormone-driven oestrogen responsive cancers and provide a healthier hormonal balance in women. It's important to understand the benefits of natural progesterone and the risks of synthetic progestins to make more informed decisions about hormone therapies.

The key message is that natural progesterone should not be confused with synthetic progestins. The latter have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, whereas natural progesterone has protective effects. As more research unfolds, it becomes increasingly evident that progesterone cream does not increase the risk of breast cancer; on the contrary, it might play a crucial role in prevention.

Apr 28, 2024

How to Apply Progesterone Cream for Menopause

applying cream

Progesterone cream is a type of bio-identical hormone therapy (BHT). Unlike synthetic hormones, these mimic the body’s natural hormones, and are easily absorbed through the skin. Progesterone cream can help balance the ratio between progesterone and oestrogen in the body, reducing the intensity of menopausal symptoms.

1. Application: Choosing the Right Cream: Always go for a high-quality progesterone cream that contains USP grade progesterone. Avoid creams containing petroleum or mineral oil as they can inhibit the absorption of progesterone and contain endocrine disruptors.

2. Amount: We recommend using between 100mg to 200mg of progesterone cream daily, but it can vary according to individual symptoms and doctor's recommendation.

3. Application Areas: Progesterone cream can be used anywhere on the body, it does not have to be applied to the thin skinned areas only. It can also be applied inside the vagina, it is soothing and can be used as a lubricant for intercourse.

4. Apply the Cream: Squeeze the recommended amount of cream onto your hand and apply it to the selected area. Rub it until it has been completely absorbed by your skin.

5. Timing: Apply twice daily, use half the dose in the morning and the other half in the evening, to maintain levels. You do not need to take a break from using progesterone when in menopause as there is no menstrual cycle to follow.

6. Excessive Stress drops progesterone levels sharply, so symptoms can return. Increase the amount of cream used over any stressful period.

It's important to understand that hormone levels fluctuate from woman to woman. Consequently, the effects of the progesterone cream will also differ. Some may see significant relief in their symptoms shortly after beginning their regimen, for others, it may take a few months depending on the severity of symptoms.

Side Effects:

Initially progesterone has a stimulatory effect. This is because progesterone activates the oestrogen receptors so making oestrogen the dominant hormone, this can initially exacerbate symptoms. As progesterone becomes the dominant hormone symptoms begin to ease. Some women never experience oestrogen dominance, in others it can take several days, whilst in others it can last longer. Much depends on the amount of excess oestrogen that is present. It is essential to use enough progesterone to overcome the excess oestrogen and allow progesterone to take effect.

In conclusion, progesterone cream can be an effective solution for managing menopause symptoms. By knowing how to apply progesterone cream properly, you can maximise its benefits and improve your quality of life during this transitional phase.

Remember, menopause is a natural phase of life. With the right guidance and resources like natural progesterone cream at your disposal, you can navigate it more smoothly and comfortably. Speak to your doctor today about whether progesterone cream could be the ideal solution for your menopause symptoms. Ensure to find a health care provider that has a thorough understanding of bio-identical progesterone and how to administer it.

Apr 28, 2024

Defective luteal phase, TTC

I started taking Natpro because out of nowhere I started spotting 3-4 days before my period. This lasted maybe 4 cycles before I found Natpro. Prior to

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Apr 26, 2024

Does progesterone cream help with weight loss?

balance the scales for weight loss with progesterone cream

Struggling with weight gain or not being able to shed excess mass? If you have addressed your diet and exercise regime then you may want to look into the role hormones play in the arena of weight management.

Hormonal imbalances can lead to a variety of adverse symptoms. A prime example is oestrogen dominance, a state stemming from naturally high oestrogen levels or extended use of HRT or contraceptives, resulting in low progesterone levels. For those battling obesity, this hormonal imbalance can exacerbate health issues.

Studies indicated that obese individuals typically exhibit lower levels of progesterone and higher levels of a form of oestrogen known as estradiol (E2). Fortunately, with progesterone therapy, reestablishing hormone balance and possibly aiding weight loss becomes feasible.

Initiating therapy may lead to initial discomfort and weight gain as progesterone stimulates the oestrogen receptors. Oestrogen causes water retention and stimulates fat cells to develop. Once this initial phase is over and progesterone becomes dominant, the water retention stops. Progesterone is an excellent diuretic. As oestrogen is suppressed the fat cells are no longer stimulated either. However, the salient point herein is to ensure an adequate dosage of progesterone. Insufficient intake can leave individuals in a continual state of oestrogen dominance, about 100-200mg/day of progesterone to counteract the excess oestrogen and mitigate symptoms is recommended.

Stressful periods or sizeable meals can disrupt progesterone levels, throwing off the balance process. You may need to increase the amount of progesterone used over any stressful time.

Diet modifications like reducing fried food, pasteurised milk, and non-organic dairy products, and increasing vitamin D-rich foods can influence oestrogen's impact on your body positively.

While research correlating progesterone directly to weight loss is limited, it does play a key role in regulating hormonal balance, a factor inherently tied to weight management. It's clear that maintaining a healthy balance of hormones is vital for overall wellbeing, and progesterone cream could significantly aid in this pursuit.

Remember, ultimate weight management isn't just about losing weight but about healthy, sustainable change. Consult a healthcare professional who has an understanding of bio-identical hormones and their administration before integrating supplements into your weight loss plan.

References:

Adipose tissue as a source of hormones

Catch it before it kills: progesterone, obesity, and the prevention of endometrial cancer

Estradiol acutely inhibits whole body lipid oxidation and attenuates lipolysis in subcutaneous adipose tissue: a randomized, placebo-controlled study in postmenopausal women

Adiposity and sex hormones across the menstrual cycle: the BioCycle Study

Physiological Action of Progesterone in Target Tissues

Analysis of the relationship between estrogen-induced proliferation and progesterone receptor expression

Effects of 17beta-estradiol on preadipocyte proliferation in human adipose tissue: Involvement of IGF1-R signaling

Apr 25, 2024

Discover the Top Organic Progesterone Cream Brands

cream tubes and progesterone molecules

Finding natural solutions to hormonal problems is a quest for many women worldwide. Organic progesterone creams emerge as a favoured choice offering a natural balance without the complications attached to synthetic options. This has led to a surge in demand for organic hormone-related products. This article shines a light on some of the outstanding organic progesterone cream brands currently available.

Emerita: A Forerunner of Progesterone Creams

One of the household names in the organic progesterone cream market is 'Emerita Pro-Gest Progesterone Cream'. Emerita has been offering products that are free of parabens and fragrances and not tested on animals, for over 35 years. The cream's main ingredient is pure organic progesterone derived from wild yam, ensuring its organic credentials.

Natpro: Organic Products for Life

Natpro places a significant emphasis on sourcing high-quality, organic materials for their products. They have been on the market for almost 30 years and believe in the importance of maintaining a delicate balance without disturbing nature’s rhythm. Natpro organic bio-identical progesterone cream is loyal to this ethos — it is paraben-free, environmentally friendly, and derived from yam, standing clear of animal testing and synthetic fragrances. Their production adheres strictly to the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines, ensuring consistent standards and top-grade quality.

The Natural Source: Source Naturals

'Source Naturals Progesterone Cream' is another brand making waves in the market. It boasts a rich blend of natural and organic ingredients such as aloe vera, wild yam extract, lecithin phospholipids, and essential oils. This soy-free, fragrance-free and paraben-free cream guarantees a soothing and all-natural experience.

Life-Flo: Blending Science and Nature (Now partnered with Emerita)

Present in the arena is also 'Life-Flo HealthCare Pure Progesterone Cream'. It banks on its organic reputation using wild yam as a source and providing a powerful 1120mg of progesterone per ounce. The cream, free from parabens and artificial fragrances, makes a robust case for organic skin care.

Smoky Mountain: Bringing the Natural Mirage to Life

Our list also features 'Smoky Mountain Naturals Progesterone Cream' which offers the concept of bioidentical progesterone. This means it's chemically identical to the progesterone naturally produced by our body thereby enhancing its effectiveness. Packed with natural, non-GMO ingredients like coconut oil, and shea butter, Smoky Mountain delivers both organic quality and effectiveness.

In today's era where hormonal imbalances and associated health issues are common, organic products like progesterone creams are proving to be the beacon of hope for many women. Brands like Emerita, Natpro, Source Naturals, Life-Flo, and Smoky Mountain are leading the way providing women with natural and healthy options for hormone regulation.

Always consult with your healthcare provider to make the best choice for your health, as what works best for one person may not work as well for another. The potential of organic progesterone creams presents an exciting avenue to explore. Choose organic, Choose balance!

Apr 24, 2024

binging

Does progesterone help with binging? since starting it it felt like my urge to binge mellowed out, but now that I'm having pms I feel like binging again.

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Apr 24, 2024

The Essential Role of Bio-Identical Progesterone Cream for Perimenopause Symptoms

progesterone balancing cream

Navigating perimenopause, a period when progesterone becomes crucial for a woman’s well-being, can be quite challenging as one grapples with an array of symptoms. From the age of around 35, the production of progesterone dips, while oestrogen levels remain consistent until menopause. Why does this happen? The answer is anovulation – a phase when ovulation declines, leading to low progesterone levels.

Understanding the Monthly Cycle and How Progesterone Fits In:

The first half of a woman's monthly cycle, known as the follicular phase, can range from seven to twenty-one days. Here, progesterone levels are minimal, and the hormones oestrogen and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are dominant. Once the egg matures, the luteinising hormone (LH) causes the Graafian follicle to burst, releasing the egg – a process known as ovulation. The luteal phase begins – the follicle, now called the corpus luteum, produces progesterone, the dominant hormone for the next fourteen days.

Perimenopause: A State of Unpredictability and Imbalance

Perimenopause results in erratic cycles with fluctuating bleeding patterns, becoming anything from very light to extremely heavy, 2 to 3 months apart, often with clots and at times, pain. While progesterone usually helps regulate the cycle, it's unable to do so once perimenopause sets in. Consequently, perimenopause is no longer about insufficient hormones but rather the imbalance between progesterone and oestrogen that triggers the symptoms.

The Saving Grace: Bio-Identical Natural Progesterone Cream

Supplementing with bio-identical natural progesterone cream can provide relief to the array of symptoms experienced during this phase of life, in a natural and non-invasive way.

Successful studies on progesterone advocated the use of 100-200 mg/day, which equates to 3ml to 6 ml of a 3.33% bio-identical progesterone cream (like Natpro) per day. This cream can alleviate a slew of symptoms generated during perimenopause such as anxiety, arthritis, agoraphobia, constipation, depression, dizziness, insomnia, cravings, palpitations, hair loss, mood swings, weight gain, and countless more.

Remember, it's not about the potency of the hormones but the ratio between them, so a comprehensive hormone testing on the appropriate day of your cycle is advisable.

Undeniably, perimenopause creates a state of hormone upheaval, but it doesn't have to dictate your life. Incorporate bio-identical natural progesterone cream into your self-care routine, and reclaim control over your well-being.

Always consult with a healthcare provider for individualised information on using bio-identical progesterone cream. You’re not alone on this journey; make bio-identical natural progesterone cream your hormonal ally and bring wellness back into your life.

Apr 02, 2024

breakthrough bleeding

Age 38 - Started progesterone after having a period at the beginning of March (periods are not regular...typically along cycle with heavy bleeding at the

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Mar 25, 2024

How long can you use progesterone cream for?

Hello, I believe I am currently in the peri men0pausal phase in my life. Is it safe to use bio identical progesterone cream indefinitely? I was reading

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Mar 25, 2024

Ilene

I would like to try this for menopause symptoms. I’m 6 yrs post menopause & have felt unwell throughout this journey. Is it definitely safe to take ? I

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Mar 25, 2024

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome for 10 years..should I try Progesterone?

As the title says, im considering trying Progesterone to aleviate my health condition (ME/CFS) - the most notable symptom being PEM - psot-exertional malaise.

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Mar 24, 2024

Dosage during perimenopause - daily or only in luteal phase?!

Hope someone can help… have purchased Natpro and am now wondering how best to dose it. In perimenopause and starting to really struggle with symptoms now.

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Feb 18, 2024

Progesterone + placenta encapsulation and breastfeeding

Hi there! I’m 9 days postpartum and my milk supply has gone down. I’m doing 200mg of progesterone cream split into twice a day and I started taking my

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Feb 16, 2024

Fibrocystic Breast Question

Hi! I just want to double check - I have the fibrocystic lumps that become more prominent during pms stage. I've been using the natpro. I don't have too

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Jan 03, 2024

Topical Prometrium

Anyone know if Prometrium is effective used topically? How much would I absorb? Some say progesterone needs to be combined with Vitamin E to absorb and

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Jan 03, 2024

Traveling overseas

HI! I just started using Natpro. This may seem like a silly question but I can't find this answer on this site so - If I'm traveling overseas, (Indonesia)

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Dec 27, 2023

Maintenance with a cycle

Would it be recommended to stay on a dose of 100mg to 200mg to maintain progesterone levels with a menstrual cycle? Or is that only for someone who is

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Dec 15, 2023

Vitamin D for heavy bleeding

Hi can anyone tell me if Vitamin D will thin blood too much. I'm afraid to take it since I am dealing with heavy bleeding and blood is very thin. I have

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Dec 08, 2023

3% or 10% creams

Is there a difference between percentages of creams? I assume higher percentages are available by other companies to avoid using so much cream at once.

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Nov 22, 2023

Still worse symptoms

Hi there-Dionna here again on behalf of my daughter. We need a little more advice. She is definitely on a roller coaster which has been very rough as

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Nov 17, 2023

A hopeless mother

I am o- and my husband is 0+ we didn't not that lam rehesus negative until l lost two babies when I decided to look for gynaecologist for help at that

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Oct 31, 2023

Dionna

Hi. I am reaching out on behalf of my daughter. She is 26 and has very high levels of Anxiety as well as depression at times which is partly due to toxic

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Oct 31, 2023

Elevated anger and sleep issues after beginning-is dosing the issue?

Hi. I am reaching out on behalf of my daughter. She is 26 and has very high levels of Anxiety as well as depression at times which is partly due to toxic

Continue reading "Elevated anger and sleep issues after beginning-is dosing the issue?"

Oct 29, 2023

Progesterone indefinitely

So I had a mishap that caused heavy bleeding after supplements given by naturopath. It gave me higher prolactin and estrogen. I need to rectify this

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Oct 24, 2023

Gut pain

Hello. I am struggling to resolve a recurring issue whereby every time I increase my progesterone cream my gut flares with acid reflux, severe indigestion

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Oct 15, 2023

can progesterone cause constipation?

either too little or too much? ive been on DIM for about a year and off an on the progesterone cream for a couple months. i read that too much can cause

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Oct 10, 2023

From prescription bioidentical progesterone pills to over-the-counter cream experience

I was told I had osteopenia, so I went to a doctor who prescribed bioidentical hormones. The doctor did the usual blood tests, including hormone tests

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